"He was very gracious," McCaskey said. "Brian knows how we feel about him. He's one of the all-time great Bears. He continued the outstanding linebacker legacy with the Bears."

Defensive tackle Henry Melton acknowledged that it was "strange" not seeing Urlacher when he arrived at Halas Hall on Tuesday morning for the beginning of the Bears' offseason program.

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McCaskey left the door open for Urlacher's return -- if the right scenario presents itself.

"That's up to the market and (general manager) Phil (Emery) and (head coach) Marc (Trestman)," McCaskey said. "We'll see what happens."

Through the signings of veteran linebackers D.J. Williams and James Anderson, Emery and Trestman already have played their hand. Even if Urlacher has McCaskey in his corner, he's unlikely to play another down for the Bears.